PIAHS - recent articles

Impact of compost application rates and depths on soil hydrodynamic properties and irrigation efficiency

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Impact of compost application rates and depths on soil hydrodynamic properties and irrigation efficiency
Prince Irené Sewanou Babadjidé Aguessy, Cintia Ahouandogbo, Yaovi Aymar Bossa, Maurel Aza-Gnandji, Mariam Ouedraogo, Esther Ndjiki, Cypel Attakoun, and Carlos Akpinfa
Proc. IAHS, 388, 59–64, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-59-2026, 2026
Optimizing irrigation means better water management. In 2024, we tested the effect of adding compost at different depths on soil improvement. We found that adding 5 kg/m² of compost at a depth of 10 cm resulted in better water retention, more efficient drainage, and a lighter structure. This method saves water and improves agriculture, particularly on sandy soils such as those found in Benin.

Temporal variability of extreme precipitation in Cotonou: stable climate signal and worsening urban flood impacts

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Temporal variability of extreme precipitation in Cotonou: stable climate signal and worsening urban flood impacts
Ninette Alceste Tollo, Audace A. V. Dossou-Olory, and Inès Oyédé
Proc. IAHS, 389, 55–62, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-55-2026, 2026
Flooding is getting worse in Cotonou despite stable rainfall. Over 40 years of data show that extreme rain events have not increased. Instead, rapid urbanization – more buildings, less green space, overloaded drains – is the main cause. This finding shifts the focus from climate to city planning as the key solution to reduce flood risk.

A remote sensing–based approach to the regionalization of socioeconomic indicators in an agricultural headwater catchment in Northern Benin

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 22:17:41 +0200

A remote sensing–based approach to the regionalization of socioeconomic indicators in an agricultural headwater catchment in Northern Benin
Yaovi Aymar Bossa, Adjo Brigitte Bossa, Yacouba Yira, Kpade Ozias Laurentin Hounkpatin, Octave Djangni, Jean Hounkpè, Hélyette Arielle Odoumbourou, and Ernest Amoussou
Proc. IAHS, 389, 45–54, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-45-2026, 2026
This study mapped key differences across the landscape and linked them to farmers’ costs and incomes. By combining satellite information with field data on soils and harvests, the researchers showed that natural variation in land conditions leads to higher labor and input needs in some areas. The results help improve decisions that support more sustainable farming and fairer outcomes for farmers.

Physicochemical and microbial quality of tanker-delivered drinking water in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Physicochemical and microbial quality of tanker-delivered drinking water in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
Richard Agyemang Osei and Moses Braimah Wunpini
Proc. IAHS, 389, 33–43, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-33-2026, 2026
This study examined the quality of water delivered by commercial tanker suppliers in Tamale Metropolis. Water samples were collected from tankers and tested in the laboratory, alongside interviews with operators. Results showed that although the source water was treated, water quality often declined during transport, with high cloudiness and signs of contamination. These findings highlight health risks and the need for better cleaning, monitoring, and regulation of tanker water services.

Linking governance awareness and community participation for sustainable water management: evidence from the Gambia River (West Africa)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Linking governance awareness and community participation for sustainable water management: evidence from the Gambia River (West Africa)
Matty Kah, Cheikh Faye, Mamadou Lamine Mbaye, Bouly Sané, Nicaise Yalo, and Gunnar Lischeid
Proc. IAHS, 389, 25–32, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-25-2026, 2026
Communities along the Gambia River have low awareness of water rules and limited participation in management, leading to conflicts between farmers and herders. Supporting local organizations improves cooperation and fair water sharing. Strengthening community involvement and communication is key to sustainable water management and reducing disputes.

Influence of cylindrical obstacle concentration on flow dynamics in channels: a computational approach to optimizing geometric configurations

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Influence of cylindrical obstacle concentration on flow dynamics in channels: a computational approach to optimizing geometric configurations
Youssef Mahjoub, Amel Soualmia, and Azeddine Kourta
Proc. IAHS, 389, 17–24, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-17-2026, 2026
This study shows how adding more cylindrical obstacles in a water channel slows the flow, reduces turbulence, and increases friction on the walls. Dense obstacle layouts make the flow more uniform and lose more energy. These findings help improve flood control, erosion prevention, and water management.

Modeling the maximum annual flow in South-East Senegal using the GEV distribution

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Modeling the maximum annual flow in South-East Senegal using the GEV distribution
Melvine R. H. Codjo, Audace A. V. Dossou-Olory, and Aliou Diop
Proc. IAHS, 388, 49–57, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-49-2026, 2026
This study examines extreme river flows in south-eastern Senegal to better understand flood risks. Using historical data, we analyzed how often very high river flows occur and how large they can be. The results show that rare but intense floods can be expected over long periods. These findings help improve planning for water management and infrastructure, and support better preparation for future flood events in the region.

Smart management of aquatic environments: application in above-ground fish farming tanks

Fri, 08 May 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Smart management of aquatic environments: application in above-ground fish farming tanks
Yesid Olahonikpèkoun Eriola, Chaim Vivien Doto, Maurel Richy Aza-Gnandji, Ayina Sandra Christelle Boko, Wenceslas Adomou, Gontrand Comlan Bagan, and Hyppolite Agadjihouede
Proc. IAHS, 388, 43–47, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-43-2026, 2026
Fish farming supports food security in Benin, but traditional methods can be inconsistent. We built a simple system that monitors water conditions, adjusts conditions automatically, and reduces manual work. Tests showed more stable environments and healthier fish. This approach offers an affordable way for small farmers to improve production through easy real-time management.

Residual-based hybrid modeling combining GR4J and machine learning for streamflow prediction in data-scarce catchment: case of the Ouémé catchment at Bonou (Benin, West Africa)

Wed, 06 May 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Residual-based hybrid modeling combining GR4J and machine learning for streamflow prediction in data-scarce catchment: case of the Ouémé catchment at Bonou (Benin, West Africa)
Jérôme Enagnon Ahouandjinou, Aymar Yaovi Bossa, and Jean Hounkpe
Proc. IAHS, 389, 9–15, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-9-2026, 2026
This study aims to improve river flow prediction in a region where hydrological data are limited, which is essential for water management and flood preparedness. We combined a traditional rainfall–runoff model with data-driven learning methods to correct systematic simulation errors. Results show that the combined approach predicts river flow more accurately than the traditional model alone. These findings highlight a practical way to improve water resource planning in data-limited regions.

Spatiotemporal analysis of meteorological and hydrological droughts across the Beninese part of the Niger River Basin (West Africa)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Spatiotemporal analysis of meteorological and hydrological droughts across the Beninese part of the Niger River Basin (West Africa)
Orou Moctar Ganni Mampo, Kossi François Guedje, Ezéchiel Obada, Halissou Yarou, Bruno Merz, Ravi Kumar Guntu, Jean Hounkpe, and Adéchina Eric Alamou
Proc. IAHS, 388, 33–41, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-33-2026, 2026
This study explored how droughts have evolved over time in northern Benin, a region that relies heavily on rainfall for farming. By analyzing rainfall and river flow patterns, the research found that while conditions improved after major droughts in the 1970s and 1980s, recent years have seen longer dry spells and worsening water shortages. These results can inform better planning for farming and water use in a changing climate.

Spatial estimation of land loss in Zou catchment area at Atchérigbé outlet (Benin center)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:17:41 +0200

Spatial estimation of land loss in Zou catchment area at Atchérigbé outlet (Benin center)
Renaud Jean-Eudes Tundé Mitchozounou, Brunelle Eunice Toyin Icoutchika, Tchihoundro Gilbert Danhossou, Sessi Victaurya Eurydice Zinzindohoue, and Davy Fifamè Karine Kodji
Proc. IAHS, 389, 1–7, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-389-1-2026, 2026
This study focus on maps soil loss in the Zou catchment in central Benin to help protect farmland. Using satellite images, rainfall records and soil data, we identified areas where soil lost is most at risk. Most of the basin shows low soil loss risk, while small zones on steep slopes are more exposed. The results show the important for better land care and future work with higher-resolution satellite data.

Assessing the vulnerability of family farms to rainfall-induced flood risks in the municipality of Kandi, Benin

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 22:17:41 +0100

Assessing the vulnerability of family farms to rainfall-induced flood risks in the municipality of Kandi, Benin
Sénadé Sylvie Hounzinme, Monsoundé Etienne Dossou, Tarick Adamou, and Madjidou Oumorou
Proc. IAHS, 388, 25–31, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-25-2026, 2026
This study examines how family farms in Kandi, northern Benin, are affected by rainfall flooding. Data from 80 farmers show that smaller farms are most vulnerable due to limited resources, while larger farms are better equipped to cope. Strengthening education, training, credit access, and cooperative support can help small farmers adapt. The research highlights inequalities in vulnerability and the need for inclusive strategies to improve resilience.

Sustainable water management for rice cultivation under climate change: a case study of the Lower Ouémé Valley, Southern Benin

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 22:17:41 +0100

Sustainable water management for rice cultivation under climate change: a case study of the Lower Ouémé Valley, Southern Benin
Marilyn Karen Soudé, Luc Ollivier Sintondji, David Houéwanou Ahoton, and René Bodjrènou
Proc. IAHS, 388, 17–24, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-17-2026, 2026
The Lower Ouémé Valley is suitable to rice production thanks to its fertile soils and water resources, though challenged by water management. Two innovative approaches, Smart-Valleys and Intensive Rice Cultivation System, have been implemented to remedy this situation. The combination of these two approaches can improve productivity while conserving water resources. However, their success depends on farmers' ongoing training, access to quality inputs and institutional support.

Dynamics of freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates in West African lagoons: Lake Nokoué and Porto-Novo Lagoon complex, Southern Benin

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 22:17:41 +0100

Dynamics of freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates in West African lagoons: Lake Nokoué and Porto-Novo Lagoon complex, Southern Benin
Roger Bolaya Lingofo, Mouhamed Orou Nari Chabi Kpera, Serge Hubert Togouet Zébazé, and Youssouf Abou
Proc. IAHS, 388, 9–16, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-9-2025, 2025
The Lake Nokoué and Porto-Novo Lagoon complex represents the most important Lagoon system in Benin. It Regarding the hydrological regime, a predominance of strictly freshwater taxa was noted during the High water period in Lake Nokoué. Furthermore, this predominance was recorded during both High and Low water periods within the Porto-Novo Lagoon. Thus, the variation of these taxa was found to be more pronounced in Lake Nokoué than in the Porto-Novo Lagoon.

Spatio-temporal variation of water physicochemical parameters in Lake Toho (Southern Benin)

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 22:17:41 +0100

Spatio-temporal variation of water physicochemical parameters in Lake Toho (Southern Benin)
Mouhamed Orou Nari Chabi Kpera, Roger Bolaya Lingofo, and Youssouf Abou
Proc. IAHS, 388, 1–8, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-388-1-2025, 2025
Lake Toho is a small freshwater lake located in southern Benin. From February to June 2024, water quality was assessed using monitoring equipment. The results indicate high levels of nutrients that could cause ecological problems such as eutrophication and the disappearance of aquatic species. Market gardening and riverside agriculture are responsible for this pollution.

Preface: Hydrological Sciences in the Anthropocene – a structured community effort

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:17:41 +0100

Preface: Hydrological Sciences in the Anthropocene – a structured community effort
Christophe Cudennec, Ernest Amoussou, Yonca Cavus, Pedro L. B. Chaffe, Svenja Fischer, Salvatore Grimaldi, Jean-Marie Kileshye Onema, Mohammad Merheb, Maria-Jose Polo, Eric Servat, and Elena Volpi
Proc. IAHS, 385, 501–511, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-385-501-2025, 2025

100 Years of IAHS – Graphic capitalisation and poetic celebration

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:17:41 +0100

100 Years of IAHS – Graphic capitalisation and poetic celebration
Christophe Cudennec
Proc. IAHS, 385, 499–500, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-385-499-2025, 2025
In centenary celebration of IAHS, Converging knowledge, shared in global embrace, Hydrological sciences in captivating displays, A graphic chaptering, and poetic interlace.

Preface: ICFM9 – River Basin Disaster Resilience and Sustainability by All

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:17:41 +0100

Preface: ICFM9 – River Basin Disaster Resilience and Sustainability by All
Toshio Koike, Shinji Egashira, Miho Ohara, Abdul Wahid Mohamed Rasmy, Tomoki Ushiyama, Mamoru Miyamoto, Daisuke Harada, Kensuke Naito, Christophe Cudennec, and Svenja Fischer
Proc. IAHS, 386, 353–354, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-386-353-2025, 2025

Preface: Mountain Hydrology and Cryosphere

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:17:41 +0100

Preface: Mountain Hydrology and Cryosphere
Rijan Bhakta Kayastha, Hari Krishna Shrestha, and Dhiraj Pradhananga
Proc. IAHS, 387, 1–2, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-387-1-2024, 2024

Backwater effect in lowland regions due to bridge structure: a case study of Shreekhandapur, Kavre, Nepal

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:17:41 +0100

Backwater effect in lowland regions due to bridge structure: a case study of Shreekhandapur, Kavre, Nepal
Rizbi Buddhacharya, Sailesh Maharjan, Rupesh Choudhary, Shyam Sundar Khadka, and Santosh Chaudhary
Proc. IAHS, 387, 65–71, https://doi.org/10.5194/piahs-387-65-2024, 2024
Our study examined the backwater effect due to bridge piers in lowland areas. The results showed that replacing the old bridge with a new design featuring fewer and narrower piers, along with a higher deck level, reduced the backwater effect and flood levels. Also, using a 3 m floodwall upstream further decreased inundated area by over 50 %. These findings highlight the consideration of environmental factors in bridge design to mitigate flood risks.